Choosing A Vacuum Cleaner

Are you in the market for a vacuum cleaner? Since vacuuming can remove 70% of all the dry soil in carpet, then choosing a good vacuum cleaner is essential for day to day maintenance in between professional carpet cleanings.  With the proper choice this vacuum could last you for years.  Here is a few suggestions of things to look for and research to do before you buy that new vacuum.

When choosing a vacuum for your home it is important to look for an upright, dual-motor vacuum. One motor for the vacuum suction and one for the brush roller. This way the power of one motor is not split amongst two jobs.  Next the vacuum needs to have a high-efficiency filtration system.  This way the dry soil you vacuum out will not be blown back through the area.  For stairs, a backpack or canister vacuum would be better suited for this job. Although an upright vacuum with a hose and attachments could also be used for stairs.

A great place to start looking for a vacuum cleaner is the Carpet and Rug Institute's (CRI) Seal of Approval list. The vacuums listed here have been tested by an independent, certified laboratory and have met minimum standards for cleaning efficiency. This should help you further narrow down your choices.  Then you might need to go a retailer that will carry many of the vacuums on the CRI list.  This way you can try them and see how easy they are to use.

Once you have choosen your vacuum cleaner it is important to keep it in good working order so that when you use it, it is actually working.  Periodically you should clean the brush roller and make sure it is free of debris. You should also check to see that the belt is in good condition.  Also never let the bag or canister get more than 3/4 full.  If that does happen, the efficiency of the vacuum is greatly reduced. If your vacuum has a hose attachment, then make sure there are no obstructions in the hose.  Doing a few minutes of maintenance periodically will keep your vacuum looking and running like new for years.

Kevin Pearson is a Master Cleaning Technician #19267 with the IICRC and has been in the cleaning and restoration industry since 1992. He is on the Board of Directors of the IICRC and the Professional Cleaning and Restoration Alliance. For information Call Pearson Carpet Care at 281-548-7200 or visit our website at www.pearsoncarpetcare.com.